AC Milan are preparing for a sweeping summer overhaul following a disappointing season that has left the club facing the real prospect of missing out on European competition. With just the Supercoppa Italiana to show for their efforts and a Coppa Italia final defeat to digest, the Rossoneri are set to part ways with manager Sergio Conceição after the final league fixture against Monza.
The focus has now shifted to finding a suitable replacement. While the search for a new sporting director remains unresolved, with names such as Igli Tare, Giovanni Manna, Federico D’Amico and Giovanni Sartori being considered, the club’s vision for its next head coach is becoming clearer. The preferred profile is that of an Italian manager with proven experience in Serie A. Milan is looking to move away from risky appointments and instead prioritise stability and familiarity with the league.
Antonio Conte and Massimiliano Allegri have inevitably been linked, but their situations appear intertwined with potential moves involving Juventus and Napoli. If Conte were to return to Juventus, Allegri might in turn be considered for the Napoli role, effectively ruling both out for Milan.
As a result, other names have come to the fore. Maurizio Sarri, currently without a club and previously linked with Milan in January, is once again a candidate. Gian Piero Gasperini, meanwhile, remains under contract at Atalanta, but the club are working hard to convince him to stay. The most recent and intriguing option, however, is Vincenzo Italiano. Fresh from leading Bologna to victory over Milan in the Coppa Italia final and a strong domestic campaign, Italiano has proven his credentials with previous spells at Fiorentina and Spezia, and appears ready for a move to a top club.
Another name that has not been ruled out is Roberto De Zerbi. The former Brighton manager has taken Marseille back into the Champions League and is a lifelong Milan supporter. His tactical style and European credentials make him an appealing, if potentially costly, option.
Ibrahimovic’s role under review amid backroom changes
The shake-up at Milan is not limited to the touchline. Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s position within the club is also under consideration. Since being appointed Senior Advisor to RedBird in December 2023, the Swede has taken on a visible and active role in Milan’s senior management, working closely with CEO Giorgio Furlani and chief scout Geoffrey Moncada.
Despite continued backing from club owner Gerry Cardinale, who holds Ibrahimovic in high regard, the arrival of a new sporting director could prompt a redefinition of the 42-year-old’s responsibilities. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ibrahimovic could shift towards a more ambassadorial role, particularly given his recent engagements with sponsors and his meeting with Italian President Sergio Mattarella in the build-up to the Coppa Italia final.
Speaking earlier this year before Milan’s Champions League play-off against Feyenoord, Ibrahimovic noted, “Cardinale gives you the space to be yourself, but he expects results.” Those results have not materialised this season, and Milan’s leadership are now under pressure to deliver change at all levels of the club.
